RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - A cross-border cultural initiative is taking shape as Indonesia’s Riau Islands province and Malaysian Pahang Al Quran Al-Sultan Abdullah Ahmad Syah (SAAS) University are exploring cooperation to develop Malay cultural heritage on Penyengat Island.

Riau Islands Governor Ansar Ahmad said the island holds a vital position as a center of Malay literary development.

“Penyengat Island is the birthplace of major works of Malay literature, including Gurindam Dua Belas written by Raja Ali Haji,” Ansar said while hosting the SAAS Pahang delegation in Tanjungpinang on Saturday, April 11, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Ansar also outlined plans by the provincial administration to build a monument to the Indonesian language on Penyengat Island, symbolizing the historical roots of the national language originating from the island.

He said cross-border collaboration in culture and education is a strategic step to preserve and advance Malay heritage, so it remains relevant in modern times.

He expressed hope for sustained cooperation between Riau Islands Administration and SAAS Pahang in manuscript preservation, strengthening Malay culture, and improving human resources in both countries. “We welcome the cooperation plans and ideas presented by SAAS Pahang,” he said.

Meanwhile, SAAS Pahang Vice Chancellor Mohd Zawavi bin Zainal Abidin expressed admiration for the rich collection of historical manuscripts preserved on Penyengat Island.

He shared his impressions after visiting the historic site, describing the experience as valuable in deepening understanding of manuscripts from the Riau-Lingga Sultanate that remain well preserved.

According to him, the island’s literary wealth and intellectual heritage are important cultural assets not only for Indonesia but for the wider Malay world. “We are deeply impressed by the manuscripts on Penyengat Island. This is an extraordinary treasure that must be preserved and developed,” he said.

He also conveyed readiness to collaborate with the Inderasakti Cultural Foundation in developing and studying manuscripts and documents from the Riau-Lingga Sultanate.

The partnership is also expected to include the development of Jawi script, locally known as Arab Melayu, which has long served as a cultural bond among Malay communities in Indonesia and Malaysia.

He added that SAAS Pahang is inviting students from the Riau Islands to pursue further education at the university. ***